By: Cat Ebeling, RN, MSN-PHN, co-author of the best-sellers:  The Fat Burning Kitchen, The Top 101 Foods that Fight Aging & The Diabetes Fix

Your body is a host to many types of bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. Some good, some not so good. One of the most common types of fungi in the body is candida albicans.

Perhaps you’ve heard of candida before, maybe in passing conversation or reading a health magazine, and dismissed it as another health buzzword. However, it may be time to pay attention because this opportunistic fungus could be quietly taking over your body! Candida, specifically candida albicans, is a yeast fungus that naturally resides in your body, usually without causing any harm.

Don’t let its benign presence fool you, though. When left unchecked—or when the conditions are right, this crafty organism can quickly overgrow, leading to a condition known as candidiasis, or candida overgrowth. This can wreak havoc on your health, causing symptoms ranging from digestive issues to depression. It’s not fun, and can be serious at times—especially those with a compromised or weakened immune system.

Candida has a unique ability to adapt and thrive in various areas of your body, including your mouth, digestive tract, skin or nails, vagina, and even your bloodstream. Its versatility and opportunistic ability to grow in dark moist places is what allows it to cause such a wide array of health problems.

Our immune system and healthy gut bacteria generally keep candida in check. However, candida is a very opportunistic type of yeast, so when conditions are optimal, it can turn into an uncomfortable overgrowth almost overnight. Conditions that encourage candida growth include:

• High carb, high sugar diet
• Broad spectrum antibiotics
• Corticosteroids
• Food sensitivities/food allergies
• Alcohol—especially wine and beer
• Environmental allergies
• Weakened immune system
• Inflammation
• Stress
• Fighting off another illness
• Vegan diet
• Anemia and other nutritional deficiencies
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes/pre-diabetes
• Oral contraceptives/the ‘Pill’
• Smoking
• Immunosuppressive drugs
• Cancer
• Being in warm, humid weather
• Mold infestation in home
• HIV/AIDS
• Artificial nails

Like a stealthy invader, Candida often slips under the radar because its symptoms are wide ranging and frequently mistaken for other health issues. In fact, many people live with candida overgrowth without even realizing it. How can you tell if this unpleasant guest has taken over your body?

Candida naturally ‘lives’ in the vagina and the digestive system. When one—or more of the conditions listed above are present, candida can quickly start multiplying—often in the gut and the vagina (for women).

Candida overgrowth affects energy levels, brain function, skin, digestion, and moods. Sufferers often report severe brain fog, fatigue, dizziness, joint pain, sinus infections, rashes and weakened immunity. None of this is surprising really, when you consider how closely your gut health is linked to every part of your body.

What Happens if I Have Candida Overgrowth?

1. Yeast Infections–For women, recurring vaginal yeast infections are a sign of candida overgrowth that often starts in the gut and spreads to the vaginal area. Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection typically include redness, intense itching, pain during intercourse, thick white discharge, and ‘yeasty’ odor. Yeast infections in the vagina can be transmitted to your partner (men or women) as well. Yeast overgrowth can also occur in the mouth, causing thrush. Thrush causes painful red, raw patches in sensitive mouth tissues, as well as white patches of fungus, making it painful to eat or drink certain foods.

2. Extreme Fatigue–Candida can interfere with the way your body absorbs nutrients. Healthy bacteria in the gut help break down and metabolize food. Candida overgrowth slows this process down, and causes additional gut inflammation, leading to nutrient deficiencies. Candida overgrowth has been linked to low magnesium, iron, vitamin A, and vitamin B6. Low levels of these nutrients often lead to poor energy. People who have chronic fatigue syndrome may be suffering with a candida overgrowth.

3. Brain fog–Candida produces a toxin called acetaldehyde. This is the same toxin that comes from drinking alcohol (ethanol). Acetaldehyde is a known neurotoxin and carcinogenic as well. The toxic chemical that contributes to bad hangovers is the very same toxin released by the candida living in the gut. With a candida infection, you may feel like you have a bad hangover: foggy head, headache, can’t concentrate, extreme fatigue, difficulty concentrating. Acetaldehyde also overloads the liver, making it work overtime. Candida infections can also cause moodiness, depression, and irritability.

4. Food sensitivities and digestive disorder–Yeast infections in the gut can cause leaky gut. Once candida is able to root down into your gut lining, it can create a “leaky gut” situation. Partially digested food particles then leak into the bloodstream, causing inflammation and a weakened immune system. This leaky gut condition then creates increased reactions to many foods, nutrient deficiencies, bloating, gas, indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea.

5. Cravings for starchy sugary foods–Candida living in the gut can influence the body to send signals to the brain and cause you to crave the very foods that candida yeasts feed on—sugary, starchy foods. The best thing to do is to avoid all foods with any added sugar, all grains and grain products, fruit, wine, and beer until the overgrowth clears.

6. Skin Problem–Many people suffering from candida overgrowth have skin problems—itchy, peeling skin, dry patches, acne, or rashes. Candida can grow in the folds of your skin as well, such as under the breast area, the buttocks, or in the groin. This dark moist environment is the perfect place for candida to flourish and is difficult to eradicate.

7. Sinusitis– Chronic sinus problems are often the result of fungal infections like candida or mold. These little organisms like to hang out in dark, moist areas inside the nose. Your sinuses are the perfect place for them to multiply, causing you to have a stuffy nose, red, raw patches inside the nose, and sinus headaches.

8. Hormonal imbalances– can be a symptom of candida as well. It is important to recognize that a candida infection can cause worsened menopause/perimenopause symptoms, PMS, low sex drive, migraines, endometriosis, water retention, mood swings, and an inability to lose unwanted pounds. Candida overgrowth causes your body to become inflamed, as the yeast spreads beyond the digestive tract. One of the byproducts of candida can mimic estrogen, leading to a serious hormonal imbalance.

Getting and Keeping Candida Under Control

While it can be nearly impossible to fully eradicate this sneaky fungus, you can take steps to get it—and keep it—under control. Candida generally always lives in your gut—and in small amounts, as it is beneficial. The important thing is to keep it under control.

There are medications that can help kill off candida, but these antifungals often have harsh side effects such as liver toxicity, and candida ‘die-off’. What is candida die-off? Candida die-off may cause symptoms of your yeast infection to temporarily worsen, or it may even cause new symptoms, such as a fever or stomach pain. It is often called the “Herxheimer reaction.” Scientists do not fully understand what causes candida die-off, but it is thought that as the candida cells break open and die, they release harmful substances that temporarily make the symptoms worse.

While medication may temporarily kill of candida, without the necessary lifestyle and dietary changes to keep candida in check, it will just return.

Making dietary, nutritional, and lifestyle changes to keep candida levels low and in balance with the other friendly gut bacteria is the best way to reduce the overgrowth and get candida in check. Preventing candida overgrowth means supporting a healthy immune system in the gut, religiously avoiding sugars and refined carbohydrates, and taking specific probiotics and nutritional supplements.

Here are some simple rules to follow on a Candida Cleanse diet:

1. Avoid all added sugars—sucrose, fructose, cane sugar, beet sugar, glucose syrup, high fructose corn syrup, maple syrup, agave, etc.
2. Avoid processed foods—they are almost always high in carbohydrates, inflammatory seed oils, processed starches and grains, and sugar.
3. Eat non-starchy vegetables—avoid carrots, beets, potatoes, parsnips, squash, corn, etc.
4. Eat low-sugar fruits—strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, cherries, and blueberries okay in very small amounts. Avoid bananas, mangoes, pineapple, watermelon, apples, peaches, plums.
5. Enjoy healthy proteins—grass fed meat, organic free-range poultry, wild caught fish, pastured eggs.
6. Use healthy fats and oils—Avoid all omega 6 processed vegetable oils.
7. Avoid all grains.
8. Fermented foods are ok to eat: plain yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchee, cheeses.
9. Avoid alcohol—especially wine and beer or sugary mixed drinks.

It is most important to avoid all types of sugar. Candida albicans uses the sugar in your diet for fuel and to multiply. It also uses sugar to create biofilms that disguise it from your immune system.

Where possible, you should also avoid inflammatory foods like processed foods, alcohol, and caffeine as much as possible while on your anti-candida diet. By doing this, you can lower inflammation, boost gut health, and speed up your recovery.

You can also help your immune function by getting regular sleep of 7-8 hours nightly, getting outside, and getting 30-60 minutes of exercise daily.

Supplements that Help Fight Candida

Any supplements that help boost the immune system are also helpful in regaining control of candida. Over the last decade, common fungi like candida albicans are beginning to develop resistance against prescription antifungal medications. Many people are resorting to natural antifungals instead. These tend to be well-tolerated, have fewer side effects, and are highly effective.

Caprylic acid–Coconut oil is made up of three fatty acids: caprylic acid, capric acid and lauric acid. Of these, caprylic acid is the most important. Taking caprylic acid during your treatment can get your gut health back in balance and help to prevent candida overgrowth again. Studies have shown caprylic acid’s potency to be similar to prescription antifungals.

Caprylic acid damages the cell walls of Candida yeast cells. The short chain fatty acids penetrate the cell wall, where it enters the cell membrane and ruptures it, destroying the entire yeast cell. Multiple studies have found caprylic acid to be effective at killing Candida albicans yeast cells, as well as reducing symptoms in those with chronic Candida infections.

Oregano Oil– Oregano oil capsules may improve gut health in several ways due to its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antibacterial properties. Research shows that the compounds in oregano oil, carvacrol and thymol, can help to treat small intestine bacterial overgrowth, as well as candida overgrowth. Oregano oil is especially effective in killing off candida albicans in the gut. Yeasts and fungi do not develop a tolerance to oregano oil.

Probiotics—Adding healthy bacteria to your gut can help crowd out the unwelcome guests, and protect your digestive system from further invasions. A high-quality probiotic helps restore the healthy diversity of good bacteria in your intestine. There are also several fermented foods that are also very beneficial, if they do not contain any added sugars. Those foods include plain unsweetened yogurt, kimchee, sauerkraut, and some cheeses.

While probiotic supplements can be an individual fit, the best probiotics to battle candida include:

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus
• L. acidophilus
• L. casei
• L. fermentum
• L. paracasei
• B. lactis
• Bifidobacterium

Berberine—This popular blood sugar-lowering natural supplement is also powerful as an antifungal agent. Berberine is the active ingredient found in barberry, Oregon grape and goldenseal.

A 2016 study found that berberine has antifungal activity against several types of yeast, including antifungal-resistant Candida. Berberine killed off the yeast cells by breaking down the yeast’s membranes. Berberine can also be used alongside antifungal medications to enhance its overall antifungal activity.

Berberine can also be used as an immune stimulant. Its ability to activate macrophages (white blood cells) has been shown to enhance the body’s overall defense system, allowing it to fight not only Candida infection but other invading pathogens.

After your symptoms have subsided, you should continue eating a diet that is high in protein and low starch vegetables, while limiting or avoid grains, fruits, sugar, and high-starch vegetables like white potatoes. Continue to consume fermented foods to help keep your gut in balance and prevent any more candida invasions. Prevention is the key to good gut health.

If you find that you are struggling with making these changes, and you do not want to break you piggy bank with expensive creams and topical ointments, our Friends have Meta Nail have an amazing discovery for you.

No antifungal drug, cream or expensive surgery can do what THIS $3 natural method does…

Even top doctors say “IT’S BETTER THAN ANYTHING ELSE!”…

Because it’s not one of those temporary solutions – that won’t clear your nails even after months of trying…

This actually targets the most dangerous type of nail fungus at its source…

Which is deeply hidden inside your socks and shoes, causing your nails to ALWAYS get infected (no matter how hard you try to clean them!).

Scientists say this new method is faster, cheaper and more effective than anything else on the market!

You can wipe out almost 98% of fungal infections in a matter of days…

Restore your nails 3x faster, eliminate nasty feet odor…

And easily bulletproof yourself against future fungal infections…

>> Click here to see how to protect your nails and eliminate fungal infections starting today!

References
https://www.mygenefood.com/blog/which-probiotic-strains-get-rid-of-candida/
https://draxe.com/health/candida-symptoms/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21513811/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3667795/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4860025/
https://www.apathtonaturalhealth.com/blog/is-your-sugar-addiction-feeding-your-intestinal-candida
https://www.thecandidadiet.com/why-does-candida-need-sugar/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/candida-die-off#causes

The post Candida overgrowth – This Sneaky Fungus Can Take Over Your Body appeared first on thenutritionwatchdog.com.

By: Cat Ebeling, RN, MSN-PHN, co-author of the best-sellers:  The Fat Burning Kitchen, The Top 101 Foods that Fight Aging & The Diabetes Fix

Don’t you love spring? The days get longer, the sun is warmer, and the birds are chirping. What’s more, everything is budding and flowering.

And that brings us to…allergies. If you have seasonal allergies, instead of enjoying the beauty of spring, you may be busy dealing with itchy, watery eyes, a runny nose and lots of sneezing. Spring becomes the enemy if you have bad allergies.

Seasonal allergies are our bodies’ response to pollen in the air. Your innate immune system interprets pollen as a dangerous pathogen, and it sends out an army of Immunoglobulin E to mount an attack. This attack takes the form of histamine which produces the watery eyes, runny nose, the itching, and sneezing, and sinus headaches. What’s more, climate change and increased CO2 have created longer, more powerful pollen producing plants.

Why do the immune systems of people with seasonal allergies have the tendency to overreact to pollen?

Back in primal days, humans often had populations of parasites such as hookworms, pinworms, roundworms, tape worms and others. While that sounds pretty gross, those parasites kept the immune system busy instead of going after innocent things like pollen.

What’s more, kids who grew up in a less-than-sterile environment, like they did back in our ancestors’ days, exposed to outside dirt, pets, livestock, dirty dishes, poor hygiene, and no hand sanitizer, had stronger immune systems as well.

Genetics also is part of the picture. Neanderthal fossilized feces show evidence of a lot of parasites taking up residence, and their DNA has evidence of immunity genes that fought off the parasites. When ancient humans interbred with Neanderthals, these genes carried over into the offspring. Populations with the most Neanderthal DNA, such as those from Europe or Asian descent seem to have the most hay fever and allergies. It seems having powerful immunity doesn’t do as well in a modern sterile environment.

Inflammation is a big reason why so many people have allergies—whether they are seasonal allergies, food allergies or environmental allergies. Excessive inflammation due to a poor, high sugar/starch diet, refined and processed foods, too much alcohol, or exposure to environmental toxins all increases overall inflammation. When inflammation is high, reactions to other potential allergens is also going to be bigger. The key is to reduce inflammation and reduce allergic reactions.

My allergy doctor once likened this to “the straw that breaks the camel’s back.” In other words, you can load your body up with various types of things that cause or increase inflammation, until it breaks the camel’s back, and you start having bad reactions. Those reactions can take the form of rashes, eczema, brain fog, achiness, stuffy nose, sinusitis, asthma, wheezing, sleeplessness, anxiety, irritability, depression—or any combination of the above.

Nutrition also plays a big part, especially vitamin D levels, vitamin C levels, B12, iron, and zinc deficiencies. Each of these nutrients play an important part in your immune and inflammatory response and deficiencies of any of these can increase inflammation and lower your immunity.

How does one naturally reduce seasonal allergies?

First, the obvious answer is not to load up on over-the-counter allergy prescriptions. These medications have undesirable side effects. Antihistamines often cause dry mouth, dehydration, drowsiness and/or agitation, reduced co-ordination, reaction speed. They can also cause blurred vision and constipation.

The better choice is to reduce overall inflammation, which not only aids your allergies, but is great for your overall health. How do you start reducing inflammation?

Cutting out sugar, processed foods, inflammatory vegetable oils, and removing all grain makes a huge difference. It’s known –at least anecdotally–that people who give up grains often report their seasonal allergies go away. I know, I tried it and was shocked to see my previously severe seasonal allergies suddenly fade into the background. Along with that, my aches and pains receded, as did brain fog, rashes, stuffy nose, and congestion. It works!

Getting your gut health back in shape is super important too, so the next step is to calm your gut. Food allergies and intolerances not only increase inflammation, but are also the consequence of poor gut health. When the gut is inflamed, there is an increased risk of gut permeability, and that allows for additional allergens to circulate in your system further stimulating an immune response.

Remove potential food allergies and sensitivities, at least during allergy season. If you aren’t sure which foods are provoking problems, you can do a short 7-day elimination diet, and remove dairy, gluten, corn, white potatoes, and any other problem foods you may be aware of.

Eat More Omega 3 Fats

Wild caught fish are known to have a good amount of omega 3 fats in them. Omega 3 fatty acids are made up of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) components; both of these have been shown to lower inflammation. This study also shows that increased intake of omega 3 fatty acids reduces seasonal rhinitis.

100% grass fed beef also contains higher amounts of omega 3 fats. Additionally, cod liver oil would help as well, since it provides omega 3’s, vitamin D, and vitamin A—all of which modulate the allergic response.

Raw Local Honey

Raw, local honey contains small amounts of local circulating pollen and by introducing small amounts of this pollen, it can lower the reaction to certain pollens and reduce sensitivity. Researchers have found that eating honey from local pollen prior to allergy season commences reduces allergy symptoms, resulting in less need for other allergy medication. But in order for this to work, the honey must include pollens you are allergic to.

Reduce Alcohol Intake

Reducing alcohol or avoiding alcohol will help improve allergies in two different ways:

1-Alochol is highly inflammatory to the gut, so cutting back or completely eliminating alcohol calms inflammation in the gut. This helps you repopulate your gut with healthy bacteria, lowering overall inflammation in the gut and system wide. Because inflammation is reduced, allergic reactions improve.

2-Alcohol especially beer and wine, contains large quantities of sulfites and histamines. Histamines initiate the process to remove allergens from your body. Histamines can cause sneezing, eye watering, itching and more.

Histamines are a big part of your body reacting to allergens, so reducing your levels of histamines helps to reduce allergic response overall.

Reduce Stress

High stress levels can cause worsening allergic responses and while it may seem counterproductive, getting outside and getting some exercise can reduce overall allergy reactions, while reducing stress. Pollen levels are highest mid-morning so if you do want to get out, getting out early in the day or later in the early evening may be the best time. Meditating, believe it or not can also reduce stress and help allergy symptoms.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle makes a huge difference in allergy reactions. One of the first things to do is to stop your exposure to toxic chemicals in commercial home cleaning agents, laundry detergents, personal care items, antibacterial cleaners and hand sanitizers, and switch to a more natural approach, Apple cider vinegar makes a safe and effective natural cleaner for most all surfaces, and washing your hands with a natural soap instead of harsh antibacterial soap is just as effective at removing harmful germs and is far gentler to your system.

Getting a good night’s sleep is also effective at calming cortisol levels and counteracting stress, as well as aiding your allergic reactions.

Overall, I noticed a huge reduction in my seasonal allergies when I switched to a Paleo diet, removed grains and sugars, got better sleep, and removed all other inflammatory foods from my diet.

Supplements for Seasonal Allergies

Vitamin D

A vitamin D deficiency has tied to allergies, including seasonal allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema, and even anaphylaxis. Vitamin D is important for regulating immune system cells and slowing down the release of histamines.

There are several studies that suggest vitamin D supplements may reduce inflammation and allergic reactions. One study had the participants who were low in vitamin D take vitamin D supplements along and antihistamines. Those participants showed much improved allergy symptoms after just eight weeks. And this study also showed that adding in vitamin D supplementation improved allergy symptoms as well.

Probiotics

I am generally not an advocate for probiotics. Each of us has a unique microbiome and it’s somewhat difficult to ‘guess’ as to which probiotics will benefit your particular health needs. However, getting a good general probiotic mix can help lessen allergy symptoms and reduce inflammation in the gut. Specific probiotics have been shown to improve seasonal allergies, including B.longum, B.lactis, L.paracasei, L.rhamnosus, B infantis, and L.acidophilus.

Magnesium

There are a few studies have found that magnesium supplementation in people with seasonal allergies reduces IgE levels and allergy symptoms. Because many people are magnesium deficient these days, this can be a safe and easy thing to try—with plenty of other good health benefits as well. There are many forms of magnesium that will work but magnesium glycinate is often one of the best forms for overall health—without the digestive complaints.

Spirulina

Spirulina is a type of microalgae that comes from Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Spirulina has been highly valued as a nutrient-dense supplement that is abundant in protein, vitamins, fats, and minerals. It’s also a potent immunomodulator –meaning that it works to calm the immune system without suppressing it. It has shown some efficacy in reducing the symptoms of seasonal allergies, even compared to an over-the-counter antihistamine drug.

Quercetin

In studies, quercetin prevents immune cells from releasing histamines, which are the chemicals that cause allergic reactions. This means that taking quercetin may help reduce symptoms of allergies, including runny nose, watery, itchy eyes, hives, and even swelling of the face and lips. Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables and it has quite a few health benefits including lowering inflammation, fighting heart disease, and protecting against cancer.

Black Seed Oil

Black seed oil is considered a powerful medicinal substance that has been used for thousands of years to treat chronic diseases, inflammation, and allergies. In one study, people put black seed oil drops in their noses to treat mild, moderate, or severe cases of allergic rhinitis, aka hay fever. After 6 weeks, 9 out of 10 people said their sneezing, itchy eyes, stuffy nose, and other symptoms got better or went away completely. In addition, black seed oil promotes wound healing, hair growth, reduces acne, heals psoriasis, improves blood sugar, and helps with weight loss.

There you go, that is your seasonal allergy toolbox. Hopefully this will help you avoid sneezing, watering eyes, and itchiness that goes along with seasonal allergies. To your health!

References
https://www.marksdailyapple.com/seasonal-allergies-treatment/#ref-14
https://www.healthline.com/program/allergy
https://www.verywellhealth.com/natural-allergy-remedies-89245
https://cell.com/…/abstract/S0002-9297(15)00485-1
https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1241165
https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20497148
https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17456213
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31464382
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20158528/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31464382/
https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3269601
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34166843/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26874366/
https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16015268
https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17634174
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34920650/
https://hindawi.com/journals/ja/2014/983635
https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6202731
https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21196761
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/279538706_Magnesium_Supplementation_in_allergic_diseases_Rhinitis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32773785/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28093815/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15878494/

The post Your Seasonal Allergy Toolkit appeared first on thenutritionwatchdog.com.

By: Cat Ebeling, RN, MSN-PHN, co-author of the best-sellers:  The Fat Burning Kitchen, The Top 101 Foods that Fight Aging & The Diabetes Fix

Cow’s milk has been around for thousands of years, but many people either have a lactose intolerance, dairy allergy, or may be following a special diet and avoid dairy cow products entirely. Because of this, there is an explosion of alternative milks available, many of them not so nutritious and high in sugar and fillers. There’s a milk war going on out there.

Alternative milks are made from almonds, cashews, hemp seeds, coconut oil, macadamia nuts, rice, oat, and soy. The bad news is these milks are not that healthy and contain relatively little of the primary ingredient. Many of these so-called ‘healthy’ plant milks could be classified more as a processed food than a ‘natural’ food. Most non-dairy milks are poor copies of milk from an animal. Most plant-based milk is full of water, fillers like guar gum and carrageenan which can be irritating to the digestive tract, and often, sugar.

However, there are some other types of ‘real’ alternative milk now more available in grocery and health food stores, that come from goats and sheep. Given that these types of milk come from real animals, they do tend to have more nutrition than any of the plant-based choices—especially in terms of protein, healthy fats and vitamins and minerals. If you happen to have a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance, these other types of milk may work better for you. Let’s investigate, shall we?

Cow Milk

I’ve had a dairy allergy for years and years. It used to make me congested, have dark circles, cause acne, have a cough, and become extremely depressed and anxious. Cow dairy allergies are very common, and dairy is often the culprit behind a myriad of health issues. Allergies, sinusitis, colds, chest congestion, eczema, skin rashes, SIBO, joint aches, inflammation, depression, and more are often tied to dairy allergies.

Cow’s milk has long been promoted as a health food, although there are a number of problems with commercial (nonorganic) pasteurized dairy products. You may be surprised to learn that many studies show commercial pasteurized milk can play a role in a variety of health problems, including: breast cancer, diabetes, prostate cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, anemia, MS, leukemia, other autoimmune diseases and ovarian cancer. Commercially processed and pasteurized dairy has also been linked to health problems in children including colic, juvenile diabetes, ear infections, asthma and bedwetting.

Also, if you happen to be sensitive to gluten, you are very likely to have a dairy sensitivity as well. Casein is the primary protein found in milk, and is often the basis for dairy allergies. The casein molecule is very similar to gluten, the protein found in wheat. A large proportion of people who react to gluten also react to cow’s milk products, and vice versa.

Then there is the whole issue of the inhumane treatment of factory farmed dairy cows, the poor health of the cows, and milk contaminated with blood and white blood cells (pus). There are hormones given to keep the cows lactating, antibiotics to fight off infections and increase growth, and pesticides from the grass, feed/grain they are eating.

Virtually all of the milk sold commercially in the US has been pasteurized and homogenized, and is generally from grain-fed, feedlot cows who have been raised in unhealthy, inhumane, crowded conditions.

On the good side, if you have access to grass-fed milk, you can get far better nutrition, and grass-fed and unpasteurized raw milk is far, far, healthier.

Grass fed dairy has some of the highest amounts of Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) of any foods. CLA is a special type of healthy fat that has many benefits including: helping you burn more fat, boosting muscle growth, strengthening the immune system, and lowering food allergy reactions. And grass-fed raw dairy milk contains around 5 times more CLA than the commercial, pasteurized milk you buy at your local grocery store.

Grass-fed dairy also contains high amounts of anti-inflammatory omega 3 fats and a better ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 fatty acids. Omega 6 fatty acids are often higher in animals on a grain fed diet. Omega 6 fats are more inflammatory, and our diets should contain low amounts of omega 6 fats and higher amounts of omega 3 fats.

Grass-fed dairy also contains a vitamin called K2. Vitamin K2 is a unique vitamin that helps escort calcium into the bones and teeth, rather than the bloodstream where calcium deposits can accumulate in the blood vessels and kidneys.

Raw milk is an even better version of a healthy milk to drink. Raw and grass-fed milk is probably the healthiest version of milk you can get from a cow. Raw milk has even more healthy vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and protein, than pasteurized milk. These nutrients are destroyed in the pasteurization process.

Unpasteurized raw milk also contains lactoferrin, which is an effective antioxidant, anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer agent and immune-boosting powerhouse. Because of its powerful antimicrobial activity, its presence in raw milk helps to prevent dangerous pathogens from multiplying.
Pasteurization kills this protein molecule.

Raw milk also contains a couple of valuable enzymes: lysozyme, and lactoperoxidase. These immune-enhancing substances, along with immunoglubulins, help your body fight off viruses, bacteria, and toxins.

Raw milk contains a broad selection of vitamins and minerals, ranging from calcium and phosphorus to vitamins A and D, and magnesium, in perfect balance. Raw, grass fed dairy also contains plenty of vitamin K2, which is so valuable in helping the body absorb calcium. Only grass-fed milk, cheese and butter contains this important nutrient.

There are also more than 60 functioning enzymes in raw milk, not present in pasteurized milk, that perform an amazing amount of work. These enzymes in milk assist in the digestion process and help the body break down and use all the healthy nutrients that milk contains.

About Dairy Allergies

Cows’ milk can contain either one of two types of casein protein molecules, named A1 or A2. Regular milk from cows can contain both A1 and A2 casein proteins, but most commercial dairy products contain just A1. Some cows—usually heritage breeds, have milk that only contains A2 protein.

Milk with the A1 type of casein is the type that often causes allergic or sensitivity reactions. When these proteins are digested, these proteins are what is often associated with health issues, such as cardiovascular and autoimmune disease.

The science on A1 vs A2 types of milk suggests that A2 milk may not cause allergic reactions, digestive issues, increases in inflammation, risk of heart disease or other health issues in many people. Due to the better tolerance of A2 milk, many dairy farmers are beginning to bring this type of milk back.

Bottom Line

Commercial, pasteurized milk is highly allergenic, short on nutrition, absent of important enzymes, and can increase the risk of certain diseases. It’s also full of hormones, antibiotics and other toxic byproducts.

The absolute healthiest choice for cow’s milk is raw, unpasteurized milk from A2 cows that are grass-fed. This type of milk is high in usable protein, healthy fats, enzymes, and easily tolerated by those who are sensitive.

Goat Milk

Goat milk has been around probably longer than milk and milk products from cows. In the Middle East, goats were considered the first domesticated species around 8000 BC. Goat milk is one of the most popular and commonly consumed types of dairy in the world. Nearly three quarters of the world’s population consume goat milk in some form.

Goats are far easier to keep, can graze in rocky and mountainous areas with steep slopes where cattle cannot go, and require less grazing space per goat. Goats can adapt well to a variety of climatic conditions. In addition, goats can consume many types of forage and grass that cattle cannot.

Goats need less water per gallon of milk produces over cows. And goats are far easier on the environment producing nearly 20 times less methane per kilogram of body weight than cows. In many underdeveloped countries, goat milk is a primary food source of calories, vitamins, minerals, protein, and fats.

Goat’s milk is an excellent source of several essential nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. This 2022 review published in the Journal Dairy, found that goat’s milk was similar to cow’s milk in terms of nutrient composition, and contains several additional bioactive compounds that also contained health benefits.

A 2019 study published in the Journal Nutrients, found that goat’s milk had a higher calcium bioavailability compared to cow’s milk, which could potentially improve bone health. Another study showed that consuming goat’s milk was associated with improved bone density in postmenopausal women, and better iron uptake in anemic persons.

Goat’s milk may be easier to digest than cow’s milk, although goat’s milk does contain A1 casein, similar to the casein in cow’s milk. This 2020 study found that goat’s milk was less inflammatory and more easily tolerated than that of cow’s milk. Goat’s milk contains several compounds including, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and oligosaccharides that help to reduce inflammation, especially in situations of gut inflammation.

And remember the discussion about A1 casein and A2 casein? While most cow’s milk products contain primarily A1 casein, thought to be responsible for many allergic reactions, goat’s milk—as well as sheep’s milk contain mostly A2 casein which is far more easily tolerated and therefor easier to digest—without the negative health risks.

Goat milk contains more healthy, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated fatty acids, along with short chain and medium chain triglycerides, all of which are known to be beneficial for human health. And unlike cow’s milk, goat milk does not separate if left to settle. Goat milk does not need to be homogenized, unlike cow’s milk. Homogenized milk has been thought to be a contributing factor in heart disease.

The downside of goat milk is that many people who have a reaction to cow’s milk may also react to goat’s milk, whether from the lactose or the casein.

Goat milk has a ‘goat-y’ flavor that is usually strong and distinct, and unless you are familiar with the taste of goat milk and goat milk products, it may be an unpleasant flavor.

Many goats are raised under similar inhumane conditions as cows, where the babies are separated from their mothers shortly after birth, they are crowded together in unsanitary factory farms, undergo painful procedures to stop their horns from growing and never get to graze on grass.

Bottom Line

Goat milk may be more readily available in some parts of the world, and can be a sustainable primary food source of healthy calories, vitamins, minerals, protein, and fats. Goat milk may be an alternative for babies who cannot handle cow dairy or formula made from cow’s milk, and may be suitable for those with allergies to cow dairy. Goat milk also contains more healthy fats and nutrients than cow’s milk. Goat milk has a strong flavor and may not be palatable to everyone. Goat milk is generally slightly more expensive than cow’s milk.

Sheep Milk

Sheep’s milk is a nutritious and valuable food source that has been consumed thousands of years. The extraordinarily long lives of Bulgarian shepherds are often thought to be attributed in part to the healthy benefits of sheep milk.

Sheep milk is rich source of high-quality protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Sheep’s milk has a smooth, creamy texture and mild flavor, making it preferable to many people. Sheep milk is used in the production of several very popular cheeses including Roquefort, feta, and pecorino.

Sheep’s milk is the highest in nutrients compared to cow and goat cheese. When you compare sheep’s milk to cow and goat milk, it contains higher protein more calcium, more iron, magnesium, zinc, thiamin, riboflavin, folate, vitamins B6, B12, and vitamin D. It also contains more fat including medium chain fatty acids, linoleic acid, and monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, along with omega 3’s.

Sheep milk contains twice the amount of fat compared to goat and cow milk. The fat globules in sheep milk are also smaller, making the milk is creamy and homogeneous. The smaller fat globules are also more easily digested and are less likely to cause high cholesterol.

Sheep’s milk is very high in protein, making it an impressive source of protein (sheep 5.4 gms per 100gms of milk; cow milk 3.2gms, and goat milk 3.1 gms).

Sheep’s milk nutrients make it a valuable and nutritious food to fight cancer, boost the immune system, fight birth defects, boost brain health, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

As with many varieties of milk, sheep’s milk contains an impressive variety of minerals, including zinc, phosphorous, magnesium, and calcium, all important for boosting bone mineral density. In fact, sheep milk contains approximately 36% more calcium than cow milk and 31% more than goat milk. and its generous amount of vitamin K2 helps to get the calcium into bones and teeth, which it should be.

Sheep’s milk is also more easily tolerated by people who may be sensitive or allergic to goat or cow milk, due to the fact that sheep milk only contains the A2 casein, and none of the A1 casein that people often react to.

In addition, Sheep’s milk has been shown to be easier to digest than cow’s milk due to its unique protein and fat structure. According to a study published in the Journal of Dairy Science, people with lactose intolerance were able to tolerate sheep’s milk better than cow’s milk

The Downside of Sheep’s Milk

Due to the limited time of the year that most sheep produce milk, which is generally around 6 months a year, constant cultivation is more difficult, which is why sheep milk and related products are typically more expensive and harder to find. Sheep also produce smaller amounts of milk than either goats or cows. Because sheep’s milk is less commonly consumed than cow’s milk, it may be harder to find, and more expensive to purchase.

Bottom Line

Overall, both sheep’s milk and goat’s milk have greater health benefits than cow’s milk, especially commercially raised dairy cows. Both sheep and goat’s milk may be a good option for individuals who have difficulty tolerating cow’s milk.

While sheep’s milk is a bit more expensive, sheep’s milk wins for better nutrition, better fat content, higher protein and more tolerable to those who may be allergic to cow’s milk and/or goat’s milk—both of which contain A1 casein. Sheep’s milk also wins for the amazing, smooth, creamy, mild taste. Give it a try if you see it in your local grocery store. It’s well worth it!

References
https://www.truthaboutabs.com/fbk-physical.html?hop=m231g
https://www.doctorkiltz.com/a2-milk/
https://www.webmd.com/diet/goat-milk-are-there-health-benefits
https://www.marksdailyapple.com/10-common-arguments-against-dairy-consumption-explored/
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/goat-milk-vs-cow-milk
https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/39464
https://www.doesanddivas.com/health-benefits-sheep-milk/

The post Cow Milk vs. Goat Milk vs. Sheep Milk—Which is Healthier? appeared first on thenutritionwatchdog.com.

What is Candida?

As we should know by now, our bodies are host to a variety of yeasts and bacteria. Some of them healthy and some not so healthy. Candida is one of those yeasts—or fungus that normally lives in our bodies. The most common form of candida is candida albicans.

Candida is the most common types of fungus in the human body. Certain health conditions can cause the yeast to grow out of control and at that point, candida can cause a variety of unwanted symptoms. It’s generally harmless, but an overgrowth of this fungus can lead to a yeast infection.

Candida lives primarily in areas like the mouth, skin, fingernails, digestive tract, toenails, rectum and vagina. When candida grows out of control in these areas, it is called “candidiasis”. Overgrowth in the mouth can cause a condition called “thrush”. Overgrowth in the vaginal tract is generally called “vaginal candidiasis”.

Rarely, for some people with compromised immune function, candida can grow out of control and become systemic.

What Causes Yeast Infections?

Yeasts like candida, generally kept in check by our immune system and by healthy bacteria in our bodies. However, antibiotics can kill off all the beneficial bacteria that would hold candida back, opening the door for unregulated candida growth. Candida is a very opportunistic fungus, so it grows where the environment is best for it. That includes the mouth, the vagina, and the digestive tract where it is warm, moist, and dark.

Other things that can contribute to the unchecked growth of candida include high blood sugar—as in people with diabetes, people with suppressed immune function—as in those who may be undergoing chemo for cancer treatments, and even high estrogen levels. People with celiac disease or types of gluten sensitivity and food allergies often suffer from an overgrowth in their digestive systems as well, as the gut microbiome is often ‘off’.

The most common cause of yeast overgrowth is a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates and low in healthy fiber and vegetables. This contributes to higher than normal blood sugar levels, which actually feed candida. Higher blood sugar contributes to an overgrowth in the digestive system, leading to a condition called “dysbiosis”. An overgrowth in the digestive system can actually cause cravings for more carbs and sugar, leading to the theory that the candida organisms themselves can actually control our cravings.

This study shows that cutting back on sugar and refined carbohydrates can actually help lower the chances of yeast infections in women.

Several other health and lifestyle practices can lead to an increased incidence of yeast infections.

These include:

• Taking antibiotics
• Eating a diet high in sugar and refined carbs
• High alcohol intake
• A weakened immune system
• Dysbiosis (overgrowth of bad bacteria and yeasts) in digestive system
• Food allergies and gluten sensitivity
• Taking oral contraceptives
• Diabetes
• High stress levels

How Would I Know if I Have a Yeast Infection?

Yeast infections are pretty obvious, and you will have a feeling of fatigue, brain fog and just general malaise. There are also some claims that yeast infections can lead to joint aches, increased food allergies due to intestinal permeability, migraines, and food cravings, but these claims have not been scientifically researched.

Let’s take a look at some of the other signs of candida overgrowth:

1. Fatigue and Brain Fog

One of the most common symptoms of candida overgrowth is brain fog and fatigue. Brain fog and fatigue can be attributed to a variety of causes, including food allergies, environmental allergies, not enough sleep, high blood sugar and several other health issues.

But when tied with any of the above risk factors, like antibiotic use, brain fog and fatigue may be attributable to candida. Overgrowth of candida can also create nutritional deficiencies and malabsorption of important nutrients, including vitamin B6, which is essential to the creation of energy. Other deficiencies caused by overgrowth of candida include magnesium and essential fatty acids. Prolonged candidiasis can lead to other issues with fatigue including chronic fatigue syndrome. This study shows a possible connection of yeast to chronic fatigue syndrome.

2. Recurring Vaginal, Genital or Urinary Tract Infections

It is true that candida is normally found in most women’s vaginal tracts, but in some, it grows out of control. It is estimated that at least 75% of all women will have at least one vaginal yeast infection in their lifetime, and most of those have more than one recurrence.

Yeast infections don’t just happen to women, they can also occur in men, and get transferred back and forth from sexual partners.

Symptoms of vaginal yeast infections include redness and itching, along with a thick, white or yellowish, cheesy discharge from the vagina. In men, there are little to no symptoms. Candida infections can also cause painful intercourse, and vaginal candidiasis can worsen with intercourse, as seminal fluid contains nutrients that candida feed on.

Candida can also cause urinary tract infections as well, especially with a prolonged or recurrent vaginal yeast infections. Candida infections can also be very common for those with indwelling catheters.

3. Oral Thrush

Since candida is an opportunistic organism and likes warm, moist areas of the body like mucous membranes, it can grow out of control in the mouth and throat as well. This is called “thrush.”

Thrush generally occurs in newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune system, such as people undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. People with certain types of dental work or dentures can also get thrush more easily.

Thrush looks like reddened, sore areas with bumpy white patches on the tongue, inside the cheeks, on the gums, tonsils or the throat. The mouth may be sensitive and sore and can bleed easily. Often the tongue can be red and swollen as well with a thick white coating. In particularly bad cases, the thrush can spread down the throat making swallowing and even breathing difficult.

4. Digestive Issues and Intestinal Permeability

Healthy gut bacteria and a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut is massively important to our health overall, and the health of our digestive system. Gut bacteria also play a role in digesting and breaking down foods including starches, fiber, and some sugar.

An imbalance of gut bacteria and an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and yeasts can create unhealthy issues within the digestive system. When yeasts and bacteria in your gut become unbalanced, you can experience digestive issues, including constipation, diarrhea, nausea, gas, cramps and bloating.

Some studies have shown that overgrowth of candida in the digestive tract may be associated with chronic diseases such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease).

Severe candida overgrowth in the intestines can also cause increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut syndrome), an increase in food allergies, and even systemic candida infections as the micro-holes in the gut can allow candida to escape into the bloodstream.

5. Sinusitis

Many adults have chronically inflamed sinuses. This can be due to ongoing allergies either in the environment or the diet, but also can be due to candida. The nasal passages and sinuses are another warm, moist mucous membrane area of the body that can allow candida to grow out of control, given the proper circumstances. Common symptoms include a runny nose, nasal congestion, loss of smell and headaches.

Most sinus infections are short lived and caused by either a bacterial or viral infection, and often clear up with medication, but many long-term sinus issues are believed to be fungal infections.

This study by the Mayo Clinic looked at a group of 210 individuals with chronic sinus infections and found that 96% of them actually had fungi in their mucus. While antibiotics are the usual line of treatment for acute sinus infections, they would most certainly make a chronic fungal infection worse. If you have recurring sinus infections or an infection that lasts longer than a month, you may have a candida infection.

6. Skin and Nail Infections

Bacteria on the skin and nails also help to keep candida from growing out of control. But certain conditions can make it more conducive for candida to grow on the skin or nails. Candida yeasts also like to grow on the skin and nails in warmer, moist conditions, which is why a yeast infection can often occur on the feet, between the toes. Armpits and the groin can also foster yeasts readily as well.

In men, it is called “jock itch”, in babies, it is diaper rash. On the feet it is often called “athlete’s foot”. Candida can also grow in the folds of skin of obese people and babies.

Antibacterial soaps can encourage the growth of yeast infections, as do warm, moist, dark areas of the skin. Candida can also contribute to ringworm and toenail fungus as well.

Babies who may be taking antibiotics for an ear infection or other illness, may experience a candida diaper rash.

Candida infections on the skin result in itchy, blotchy red areas, while candida infections in the nails can cause the nail to pull away from the bed of the nail, look white, gray or yellow. The nail itself becomes crumbly and loses its integrity.

How to Treat Candidiasis

The standard medical treatment for candida overgrowth is antifungals. Antifungals can be topical for the skin and nails, suppositories for vaginitis, or taken internally for severe digestive overgrowth or systemic candida infections. Many conventional medications for candida can be especially harsh, with unwelcome side effects, including liver dysfunction and have to be monitored carefully.

Candidiasis is generally not considered life threatening, unless the immune system is severely compromised as it is in people who are on cancer treatments, or those with immune disorders such as AIDS.

A better, more gentle treatment is to try an anti-candida diet to treat the underlying cause in the gut. Eliminating all sugars, grain-based carbohydrates and fruit is a good start. In addition, it is recommended to avoid lactose in dairy products, fruit, and any foods you may be sensitive or allergic to. For those who are gluten sensitive, candida overgrowth is fairly easy to treat by eliminating gluten and slowing the inflammation and immune reaction in the digestive system.

By eliminating grain based carbohydrates, all added sugars, fruits and fruit juice—as well as high yeast drinks such as beer and wine, you help to starve the candida yeasts.

Certain foods and drinks actually are proven to encourage growth of beneficial bacteria and kill off candida, including:

• Taheebo or Pau d’arco tea–Pau d’arco actually contains two primary active ingredients, lapachol and beta-lapachone. These two natural chemicals are what make it effective against bacteria, fungi, yeasts, viruses and even parasites. Lapachol is known to not only kill many different types of fungi, bacteria and yeasts—like candida, but it also lowers inflammation.

• Garlic—Garlic contains the powerful substance, allicin, which is an antifungal. It has been shown to be active against candida yeasts in animal and test tube studies.

• Coconut oil—Coconut oil contains a substance called lauric acid which is toxic to candida cells.

• Turmeric and Curcumin—curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric can kill or reduce candida growth as well as reduce any accompanying inflammation that may occur with a yeast infection.

• Aloe vera—Aloe vera gel is effective for use against oral thrush, inhibiting the growth of candida and soothing sore inflamed oral tissue as well.

• Pomegranate—Plant compounds in pomegranate peel are beneficial against candida yeasts as well but care must exercised as most pomegranate juice you purchase in the store may have added sugars or other fruit juices, helping to encourage candida growth.

• Kombucha tea—Rich in tea antioxidants, acetic acid and a plethora of beneficial bacteria, kombucha makes an excellent drink to encourage growth of helpful bacteria, as well as working to kill off candida.

• Apple Cider Vinegar— ACV works as both an antibacterial and antifungal agent. A very recent study found that undiluted ACV can prevent the growth of candida. It appears this opportunistic fungus does not get along well with ACV, but more research is necessary to determine if it is because it makes the body less receptive to candida or that it actually kills the candida.

Unfortunately, dietary changes may not always do the trick, in which case conventional antifungal medications often seem to be the only other choice. However, there are several natural antifungal treatments that work well against candida—without the harmful side effects.

Some of the most effective natural treatments include grapefruit seed extract, oregano oil capsules and clove oil. One of my favorite supplements that not only kills off candida, but also other harmful parasites is a product called Intestibal, which contains oregano oil, clove, ginger, wormwood and evening primrose oils.

It’s important to keep in mind, when combating candida, there can be a candida ‘die-off’ reaction as the candida cells break open and release a toxin which can sometimes make you feel worse for a short time.

Sticking to a low carb diet of unprocessed foods, avoiding grains, gluten and dairy and steering far away from any foods containing sugar will go a long way to helping you avoid annoying candida overgrowth. Always check with your doctor before starting any supplements to be sure they do not interfere with any other medications or health conditions.

References
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/candida-diet#downsides
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-candida-diet-separating-fact-from-fiction/
https://www.healthline.com/health/apple-cider-vinegar-candida
https://draxe.com/health/candida-symptoms/

The post The Truth About Candida appeared first on thenutritionwatchdog.com.